Blomqvist, Petra

Abstract [en]

Concentration problems have been discussed from a variety of angles and have been problemized in different ways. One approach is to place the major part of the problem on the child independent of its environment. The terms used as an explanatory model are “attention disorder, impulsiveness, difficulty at finding suitable activity levels, difficulty in understanding rules and instructions” (Kadesjö 2007). Others place the root of the problem in the environment prevalent at pre-school and school. In this case the prevailing arguments are aimed at the pedagogical environment and the organisation of time and space (Nordin-Hultman 2005). My experience is that independent of reasons these children struggle, but often feel quite inadequate.

The aim of this study is to examine how special pedagogues argue and problemize the concept of concentration difficulties. I also want to examine if there is anyway to reason and act in a way which will aid children with concentration difficulties, what that work would be and how a pedagogue can be a resource.

The main result of my study is that the concentration problems found among the individuals I examined are relatively common in pre-school and school. The results regarding attitude and pedagogical methods can be summarized by the concept that pedagogical methods should be adapted to the individual.